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In 2012, critics and audiences around the world fell in love with the wildly successful French film The Intouchables. But for those who missed the original, the inspiring true tale now moves from Paris to New York City for the Hollywood remake, The Upside.
The Upside stars Kevin Hart as Dell Scott, an ex-con who just needs is a few signatures to prove to his parole officer that he’s trying to find work. But when he walks into a building on Park Avenue and stumbles into the wrong interview, he gets more than just a signature. He gets an offer to care for Philip Lacasse (Bryan Cranston), a wealthy businessman who’s all but given up on life after the loss of his wife and the accident that left him paralyzed. But Dell brings new energy for Philip and his staff.
Following the blizzard of big holiday releases and award contenders that hit theaters in November and December, the movies of January can often be a letdown. Just a couple of weeks ago, it was all about big budgets, big names, and big buzz. Now…not so much.
Fortunately, The Upside is a charming January surprise, with a lovable cast telling an uplifting story of unexpected friendship. Hart and Cranston work well together, playing off one another’s different styles—and their chemistry will make viewers connect with the characters and their relationship.
Cranston’s Philip is grief-stricken and world-weary. He believes that all of the joy has been sucked right out of his life, and he’s tired of trying. Hart’s Dell, on the other hand, is loud and blunt and rough around the edges. And while Dell’s fresh perspective brings the smile back to Philip’s face, Philip’s encouragement pushes Dell to be a better man. And that relationship is both entertaining and heartwarming.
Still, this isn’t an especially surprising movie. Everything about the story, the characters, and the cast plays out pretty much as you’d expect. The film takes advantage of stereotypes and typecasting to take the place of stronger development—and some of the characters and plotlines end up feeling underdeveloped and underused. But, while the film may not necessarily surprise you or challenge you, it will definitely leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling.
After another hectic holiday season, most of us could use a laugh or two and an uplifting story—and The Upside offers just that. It’s an entertaining—and altogether charming—way to spend a couple of hours on a dreary January evening.
Listen to the review on Reel Discovery:
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